Ratana

Situated on the edge of the jungle, Ratana is a crucial waypoint for travelers journeying from the south to the north, particularly those en route from Lioskari. The road leading from Ratana to the nearest northern settlement, Teremond, stretches as one of the longest routes without any intermediate settlements, so thorough preparations are necessary before embarking on the journey further northward.

Ratana is home to many mages. It serves as a significant place for magic adepts, as it marks the furthest point of Zatar Jungle one can travel to with relative ease. The city comprises three distinct regions: the Slums, which occupy a substantial portion of the city’s land; the Shrine District, featuring one of the largest Temples of Time, accompanied by an adjacent academy; and the Upper District, situated beyond the jungle’s reach. Notably, an ancient temple within the city houses the wealthiest family, although its inhabitants tend to change frequently with shifts in the town’s ruling powers. The architectural style is characterized by pyramid-like structures, with many steps decorating their steep walls. These structures house numerous families and stand independently, but are interconnected at higher levels through woven bridges constructed from young trees. The commercial district more closely resembles a bustling street than a conventional town square. It hosts a plethora of shops offering all kinds of goods, mostly imported items, supplemented by select local products like herbs, woodwork, and hides. There are no major manufactures in the city, so most of the economy is based on trade and services related to it, including protection, transportation, and labor. Fields bordering the city’s outskirts are limited in number, primarily cultivating crops such as tobacco, grapevines, and tea, sought after by the city’s wealthy population. The combination of their scarcity and exceptional quality makes them luxury goods in Ratana.